ASIATODAY.ID, JAKARTA – The Indonesian government has temporarily closed 11 airports across Papua following a deadly shooting incident involving a pioneer flight aircraft. Authorities have classified the security situation in several areas as being at an “extreme danger level.”
The decision was announced by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation under the Ministry of Transportation after a Cessna Grand Caravan (PK-SNR) operated by PT Smart Cakrawala Aviation was attacked on February 11, 2026, while flying from Tanah Merah to Danawage/Koroway Batu.
The incident resulted in the deaths of both the pilot and co-pilot, sending shockwaves through Indonesia’s aviation sector.
Government Prioritizes Aviation Safety
Director General of Civil Aviation Lukman F. Laisa stressed that pioneer flights are essential for communities in Papua, particularly in remote and mountainous regions.
“Pioneer aviation services are vital for ensuring access to healthcare, education, logistics distribution, and basic mobility in isolated areas. Their security is absolutely crucial and cannot be compromised,” he said in an official statement on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.
11 Airports Closed Pending Security Clearance
As a preventive measure, the government has suspended operations at 11 airports, service units, and airstrips considered highly vulnerable to security disturbances.
Operations will only resume once:
– Security guarantees are provided by the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and National Police (Polri)
– The situation is declared fully conducive
– Aviation safety standards are confirmed to be met
Meanwhile, five other airports categorized as “high risk” remain operational under tight security supervision.
Strategic Measures After the Attack
In response to the shooting, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation has outlined several tactical steps:
– Conducting risk profile assessments for each airport
– Developing special Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for flight crews operating in high-risk zones
– Strengthening the legal framework for temporary suspension of operations
– Preparing a Joint Decree (SKB) between regional governments and security authorities
– Coordinating with national security and law enforcement agencies to investigate the incident
Authorities emphasized that aviation safety remains non-negotiable, particularly in regions with elevated security threats.
Papua’s Air Connectivity at Risk
Pioneer flights serve as a lifeline for many remote Papuan communities, where air transport is often the only viable means of moving goods, medical supplies, and personnel.
The temporary closure of 11 airports underscores the fragile balance between maintaining connectivity and ensuring maximum security.
“We extend our deepest condolences for the loss of the pilot and co-pilot. They were true heroes of Indonesia’s air transportation sector,” Lukman concluded.
The tragedy highlights the significant risks faced by aviation crews operating in Papua — and the urgent need for stronger coordination between civil aviation authorities and security forces to safeguard essential air routes. (AT Network)
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